Namina Forna, born January 9, 1987, is a Sierra Leonean-American author primarily focused on young adult fiction. Forna’s writing is characterized by its exploration of themes of colonialism, identity, and female empowerment, often set within fantastical or speculative worlds. Her style blends elements of epic fantasy with deeply personal narratives, creating immersive and thought-provoking stories. Her debut novel, The Gilded Ones, achieved immediate success, garnering recognition on bestseller lists and establishing her as a rising voice in the young adult genre.